Another bit of small-town history has faded to black with the announcement that the North York Drive In — located in the hamlet of Holland Landing, north of Newmarket — won’t be opening this summer.

A notice on the drive-in’s Facebook site points the finger at “new technology,” specifically digital projection, the new industry standard that has threatened independent theatres that can’t afford the pricey upgrade.

“For 58 years we have enjoyed sharing summers with loyal customers and staff, many of whom have become good friends,” the notice states. “Unfortunately due to development and changes to digital film we are unable to continue the tradition this year. It is with much regret that we say goodbye to summer evenings at North York.”

The Murrell family, which ran the operation, were unavailable for comment, but the Facebook announcement has attracted more than 1,000 comments since Tuesday, mostly laments from former patrons, as well as an emotional note from Natalie Murrell, who “grew up sleeping in the projection room while my parents worked, running around the snack bar as a child with my quarters and making grab bags on my summer days for the nights ahead. . .

“I deeply understand everyone’s sadness here,” Murrell continues, “but I am also excited that my family will be able to retire and enjoy their summers now.”

East Gwillimbury Mayor Virginia Hackson said in an email that the closing was a “loss for the town.”

“The drive-in is an icon in East Gwillimbury, and for those who grew up here,” she says. “Many in our community have fond memories of family outings there and we have long felt a sense of connection to the drive-in.”

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